Since 1999, the Swedish builder J Craft has been building classic ultra-luxury speedboats on an island near Gotland. Their 42-foot Torpedo is a hand-made collector’s item that evokes La Dolce Vita from the Riviera and the Gatsby Days on Long Island, New York.
Torpedos have advanced, cored-fiberglass hulls and classic mahogany decks that are finished with 18 coats of hand-rubber lacquer and varnish. Her leather seats and bolsters are made from the finest leather and hand-stitched to perfection. At the end of a dock the boat shines like a precious jewel.
But, with Swedish DNA –think sea-going Vikings—each Torpedo is a massively sturdy craft that carries 800 horse-power Volvo IPS drives and is capable of making open ocean crossing. Torpedos routinely cross the Mediterranean Sea and have transited both the North Sea and the Baltic. They have crossed the South China Sea and the Gulf Stream from Florida to the Bahamas.
With a top speed of 47 knots and a deep-V hull form, the boat can make fast long distance runs or can thrill passengers with high speed turns and nautical acrobatics. Plus, the IPS drives make the boat a dream to maneuver around marinas and docks.
Given its sea-going capability, a Torpedo is really an elegant, high performance day boat that has sumptuous lounges, a large sunning bed on the after deck and a swim platform. One can easily imagine spending long summer afternoons anchored in a special cove before burning home in time for a waterfront dinner. La Dolce Vita.
And, if you decide to spend the weekend on the boat, there are accommodations for four in the cabin and meals can be prepared in the cockpit where there is a fridge, a sink and either an induction stove or a grill.
J Craft offers a number of Bimini tops and canvas enclosures, plus both heating and air conditioning, so even in fall and spring weather, the boat will be comfortable.
A Torpedo is not for everyone but if you appreciate the relentless pursuit of classic perfection, this is the boat for you.
